With many dogs currently at the shelter or in foster care and more are expected to arrive throughout the month, Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month, has come just in time for the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA). Those who adopt a dog from AWLA during the month of October will be entitled to special incentives including a day of special pricing and same day adoptions.
Whether it is a commitment to adopt or simply sharing a Facebook post, there are some ways the public can get involved and make a difference during Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month:
- Meet Your Match– AWLA will be a satellite location for the 2013 ASPCA “Mega Match-a-thon,” an adoption event hosted by Washington Animal Rescue League, sponsored by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®. During the one-day event on Saturday, October 19th the League will be open from 11a.m.-5p.m. offering same day adoptions, as well as special pricing, $50 for dogs and puppies (Normally $175 adult dogs and $200 for puppies) and $25 for cats and kittens (Normally $100 adult cats and $150 for kittens). Not only will adoption fees be at their lowest for the year, they will also include: a certificate for a free exam with a participating veterinarian, rabies vaccination, spay/neuter procedure, distemper vaccine, personalized I.D. tag, microchip, an information packet and emergency sticker. Dogs will also receive a complimentary heartworm test and bordatella vaccine, and cats will receive a feline leukemia/feline AIDS test.
- Free Training Session-All dogs adopted from AWLA throughout the month of October will be entitled to a free group training class on Sunday, October 20 at the League. Learn training tips, techniques and receive a complimentary consultation.
- Party for a purpose! Join us for our Inaugural Golden Paw Gala on Saturday, November 2nd at the Westin Arlington Gateway. The glitzy benefit will support not only all AWLA shelter dogs, but all animals, programs and services. For details and to purchase tickets visit, www.awla.org.
- Become a Foster– The shelter can be a stressful environment and some dogs just need a break. AWLA is seeking individuals or families that can temporarily open their home to a dog in need of fostering. AWLA provides foster training and covers all expenses associated with caring for a foster animal, including feeding and medical expenses.
- Spread the Word– Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube and share stories of our adoptable dogs through social media to increase awareness and help find them homes.
If it is a designer dog or a middling mutt you seek AWLA has them. “Dogs of every type, size, age and personality are available at AWLA and our goal is to help them find a permanent home,” said Neil Trent, president and CEO, Animal Welfare League of Arlington. “Whether you want an exercise buddy, a best friend for your child, a partner in agility competitions, a constant companion for an aging parent or simply a wagging tail and furry face to greet you after a hard day at work, an adopted dog can be all of these – and more. Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month is the perfect time for people to adopt a shelter dog and experience the joy canine companionship brings.”
To learn more about adoptable dogs or AWLA’s diverse selection of other companion animals including: cats, rabbits, birds, and hamsters, download the free Arlington Pets App or visit www.awla.org.